awhile

a-while · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    For a short time; for a period of time.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    stay awhile — Remain for a short period.
  • •
    rest awhile — Take a brief rest.
  • •
    wait awhile — Pause for a time.

Related words

Antonyms: forever, permanently
See also: briefly, momentarily, while
Synonyms: briefly, for a bit, for a time, momentarily

Etymology

From Old English ane hwile ("one while"), literally "for a time." The phrase contracted over time into a single word.